EU state tightens rules for military-age Ukrainian men

Lithuania is demanding proof of compliance with military obligations as other European countries step up deportations and limit protection Lithuania has tightened temporary protection rules for Ukrainian men subject to military service, becoming the latest EU member state to impose new conditions as Kiev struggles to replenish its depleted armed forces.Ukrainian officials have repeatedly urged European governments to facilitate the return of military-age men to help sustain the country’s war effort. Kiev barred most military-age men from leaving Ukraine after the conflict with Russia escalated in February 2022 and later lowered the minimum mobilization age from 27 to 25.On Wednesday, the Lithuanian government approved rules requiring Ukrainians liable for military service to prove they have fulfilled their obligations to qualify for temporary protection. Existing beneficiaries who have continuously retained their status are exempt. Around 52,000 Ukrainians currently hold temporary residence permits in the Baltic country. Germany has also seen calls for tougher restrictions on Ukrainians. Alexander Throm, a domestic affairs spokesman for the ruling CDU/CSU alliance, argued that youn...